Deputy Library Director

Onslow County•Jacksonville, NC

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

Performs complex administrative work assisting in the planning, directing, and evaluation of library services, programs, personnel, facilities, and organizational initiatives that support the library's mission and the strategic goals of Onslow County. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Library Director. Our core values—Resilience, Excellence, Accountability, Customer Service, and Honesty—are the foundation of our work and the standard by which we operate. As a member of our team, you are expected to demonstrate these values in every aspect of your role. This means delivering high-quality work, taking responsibility for your actions, providing exceptional service, and maintaining integrity in all interactions. Your commitment to these principles is essential to fostering a positive workplace culture and ensuring the success of our organization and the community we serve. This position is based primarily in a public library setting with occasional off-site events or community engagements. Evening and weekend hours are required.

Requirements

Comprehensive knowledge of modern public library principles, practices, technologies, and trends.
Strong knowledge of personnel management, organizational leadership, strategic planning, budgeting, and public administration.
Ability to lead organizational change while fostering collaboration and employee engagement.
Ability to analyze complex issues, develop practical solutions, and make sound administrative decisions.
Excellent interpersonal, communication, presentation, and public speaking skills.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with County officials, employees, community organizations, elected officials, vendors, and the public.
Strong project management, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to interpret policies, regulations, and professional standards and apply them consistently.
Proficiency with integrated library systems, Microsoft Office applications, budgeting software, and other business technologies.
Master’s degree in library and information science (MLIS or MLS) from an American Library Association (ALA) accredited institution.
Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible professional public library experience, including at least three (3) years in a supervisory or management capacity.
An equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.
Valid drivers license.

Nice To Haves

Experience managing within the library department.
Experience in strategic planning, budget development, grant administration, and organizational leadership.
Experience with public sector administration and County government operations.
Certification or participation in professional leadership development programs.

Responsibilities

Provides leadership and guidance to branch managers and department supervisors to ensure consistent, high-quality library services across all locations.
Participates in the development and implementation of the library's strategic plan, policies, procedures, and long-range goals.
Monitors organizational performance and recommends improvements to increase operational efficiency and service excellence.
Leads special projects and organizational initiatives that support innovation and continuous improvement.
Oversees daily library operations to ensure consistent service delivery throughout the library system.
Coordinates system-wide operational initiatives and standardizes procedures among branches.
Collaborates with department leaders to ensure effective scheduling, staffing, and resource allocation.
Assists with emergency preparedness planning, continuity of operations, and facility management.
Supervises, mentors, coaches, and evaluates assigned managers and professional staff.
Assists with recruitment, hiring, onboarding, training, and employee development.
Supports succession planning and leadership development throughout the organization.
Addresses personnel concerns in accordance with County policy.
Assists in the preparation, monitoring, and administration of the library's operating and capital budgets; reviews expenditures and monitors fiscal performance to ensure responsible stewardship of public funds.
Assists with grant administration and identifies opportunities for external funding.
Cultivates partnerships with community organizations, educational institutions, local government agencies, and civic organizations.
Represents the library at meetings, community events, professional organizations, and public presentations.
Promotes awareness of library services through outreach and collaborative initiatives.
Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local laws, County policies, and library standards.
Assists in developing and updating library policies and operational procedures.
Supports workplace safety initiatives and promotes a safe environment for employees and patrons.
Participates in risk management, emergency response planning, and organizational preparedness.
Uses performance metrics, statistical data, and customer feedback to evaluate library operations and recommend improvements.
Encourages innovation, data-informed decision making, and organizational excellence.
Identifies emerging trends in public libraries and recommends new services, technologies, and best practices.
Performs assigned functions as a Disaster Ready Team (DRT) member, if appointed or volunteered.
Other duties as assigned.